Authors(s) and Affiliation(s)

Abstract

This article makes a theoretical analysis of glacial erosion beneath a large ice sheet overlying the thick beds of unconsolidated sediments in northwestern Europe, and derives most important factors controlling erosion. A model-supported interpretation of the erosional potentials of past glacial systems is made. Both field data and other models, described in the literature, are combined or adapted and applied. Finally, an attempt is made to generalize the conclusions concerning physical conditions beneath ice sheets during the two major Quaternary glaciations in northwestern Europe